What to do After a Motorcycle Accident
Michigan law states that motorcyclists have the right to choose for themselves whether or not to wear helmets. Two years after legislation passed, the annual average of motorcycle accidents fell significantly. But in 2016, research showed motorcycle-related fatalities doubled for riders who opted not to wear helmets. Regardless of what side you camp on the issue or where you ride in the state, you have to be prepared for potential hazards. Knowing exactly what to do if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident will help expedite claims and get you back on the road with minimal downtime.
Assess All Damages
The first concern after any accident should surround the passengers involved. If you’re riding solo at the time of the accident, make sure you’re OK before moving. Any passengers involved on your end need to be assessed and emergency medical attention must be secured as needed. If everyone’s OK, move the bike away from oncoming traffic, and check on the injuries of the other driver. Then be sure to assess any physical damage of the vehicles involved.
Take Plenty of Pictures
Modern cell phones provide ample clarity and storage for pictures and video. Start snapping pictures of the impact, damages and injuries on both sides of the accident, and the surroundings. Images of tire tracks, skid marks, shattered equipment, license plates, and even local bystanders can all help your case. Take more pictures than you think you’ll need because they can fill in the parts of the story your brain forgets.
Exchange Insurance and VERIFY Contact Information
It’s illegal to operate a vehicle in Michigan without insurance, but people still try to pull a fast one. You’ll need to wait for the police anyway, so exchange insurance while you’re waiting. Don’t admit fault. Just exchange the information. Also get their personal contact information. Be sure to verify their number by reading it back with one number incorrect. If they correct you, they’re legit. If they let it go, they may be trying to trick you. The right information is crucial for an efficient claim settlement. If witnesses are available at the time, be sure to get their contact information as well. They can help with even more parts of the story that can help secure your insurance claim.
Call the Authorities But Wait On Calling Your Insurance Company
Call the police. They’ll need to confirm injuries, stories, and potentially help with traffic adjustments. Regardless of the pressure involved, wait to call your insurance company. Injuries can materialize days after a serious accident, and your insurance company will want to get everything settled as quickly as possible to avoid higher payouts. You may also need medical releases or a chance to recharge and gather your thoughts so you’re able to respond to their questions and demands regarding the accident.
Retain a Michigan Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Dealing with the aftermath of any type of auto accident can be a real headache, so a lot of people opt to just “forget about it”. That often leads to trouble days or weeks later when injuries pop up or your vehicle starts having serious trouble. A police report goes a long way to at least having the incident on record, but it’ll do little to prove your case if the other driver flip flops on the facts. A competent Michigan Motorcycle Accident Attorney will be on your side from beginning to end and do everything legally possible to secure the financial freedom you need and deserve to heal. Why even consider taking chances with your health and finances?
